Those who love wild and lonely places will love driving the scenic and secluded roads of Nevada. Whether you’re looking to add scenic routes on a long trip around the US or just want to do a little more touring, our selection of the best routes in Nevada is worth adding to your itinerary.
Highway 50-320 miles / 515 km
Stretching east from Fallon, Nevada to the Great Basin National Park and the state line, Remote Highway 50 follows some of America’s most famous roads – the Pony Express, Stagecoach, and Lincoln Highway – through the heart of the state. It was described by Life magazine in 1986 as “America’s loneliest street”, and the name remained. A survival guide on Highway 50 is available from most tourist information offices; expect miles upon miles of no further vehicle in sight and only austere pools and rugged peaks to keep you company.
Panoramic Road to the Las Vegas Strip – 4.5 miles / 7.2 km
This five-mile long road may be short, but it is the only scenic night-road in the United States, and is an iconic street. Here you can enjoy some of Las Vegas’s best sights without delving into the insanity of the Strip (though it’s here to wait for you when you’re ready). See the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign and take a world tour by discovering themed locations including the ancient Egyptian pyramids, medieval castles, the Eiffel Tower and more. It can take only 30 minutes, but many linger on the road for several hours to explore or take pictures.
Pyramid Lake Scenic Byway-34 miles / 55 km
A piercing blue expanse in an otherwise barren landscape 25 miles north of Reno on the Paiute Indian Reservation, Pyramid Lake is a breathtaking autonomous spectacle, with shores lined with beaches and striking tufa (a type of limestone) formations. From Reno, head north on NV-445 to go down the lake, then return to the visitor center on NV-446.
Wheeler Scenic Drive, Grand Bassin National Park-12 miles / 19 km
Rising 3000ft, this panoramic back and forth will make your ears pop and jaws drop to the amazing views of Wheeler Peak and the bottom of the basin. With each round (these hairpins are not for the shy), the views are getting better and better. From the roundabout at the end of the trip you can park and climb the mountain (provided you are well prepared). Other shorter hikes are no less beautiful. The Park rangers tell us that the trail crosses the same number of eco-regions that exist between northern Nevada and Canada’s frozen Yukon, thousands of miles to the north.
Route des Monte-Rosa-24 km/39 km
The romantic name of National route 431, this road connects the sloping village of Lake Tahoe with Reno and covers an elevation of more than 8000 feet above sea level at the top of Mount Rose. The three-mile panoramic view is an important stop to enjoy the sparkling Alpine lake to the fullest. If you take this trip in winter, always check the condition of the road before leaving (see tips below).
A paved road passes through an area of ancient rock formations that rise above the road
Red Rock Canyon-13 miles / 21 km
The spectacular views of Red Rock are revered by the residents of Las Vegas and adored by visitors from all over the world. Formed by extreme tectonic forces, it is believed that the gorge was formed about 65 million years ago. A one-way loop from the visitor center offers fascinating views of the canyon’s most striking features. You will need to book a limited-time reservation to explore the route. Hiking and climbing trails are accessible from the roadside parking lots.
Tips for driving in Nevada
Most drivers drive through Nevada on Interstate Highways I-80 or I-15. US 6 or US 50 are excellent, crowded alternatives.
It takes less than two hours to drive 125 miles from Primm on the California state line to Mesquite near the Utah border via I-15; Las Vegas is the most popular night stop along this route.
If you cross the state on I – 80, Winnemucca and Elko are the most interesting places for a night’s rest.
US Hwy 95 may be the fastest route between Las Vegas and Reno, but there’s still a day’s drive without much to see or do along the way.
Many picturesque streets are unsealed. Check with your car rental company to make sure you are allowed to drive offroad.
For road conditions, especially in winter, call 877-687-6237 or visit the Nevada Department of Transportation.